This article highlights the increasing risks children face online, emphasizing the need for stronger digital protections. It discusses the prevalence of unsafe platforms, the rise of AI-driven attacks like deepfakes, and the impact on young users' safety and well-being. The article also explores initiatives to enhance online safety, such as age-based restrictions on social media access and the importance of raising awareness among children, parents, and educators.
While today’s young people are digital natives, their familiarity with technology doesn’t always shield them from online threats. In the Philippines, users are 33 times more likely to encounter risks on unsafe platforms like pirate websites, highlighting the need for stronger safeguards. For children, the dangers are even greater. Their natural curiosity and frequent online activity make them prime targets for malicious content, online predators, and unauthorized data collection.
One alarming trend is the rise of AI-driven attacks, including highly convincing deepfakes enabled by generative AI. Last year, deepfakes impersonating prominent public figures in the Philippines made headlines and impacted reputations. This risk will only continue – in fact, Palo Alto Networks predicts that the number of deepfakes will multiply significantly in the coming years. If high-profile individuals can fall victim to identity fraud, children and young people—who are increasingly active on social media and frequently share content—face even greater risks. These growing concerns have led to efforts in the region to implement stronger digital protections. For example in Singapore, discussions are ongoing about age-based restrictions on social media access, with the country engaging with Australia to understand its approach following Australia’s proposal to ban children under 16 from these platforms.. Recognizing the urgent need to protect young users from online threats, Palo Alto Networks emphasizes the importance of fostering safer digital practices this Safer Internet Day. By promoting good online habits and building awareness, everyone can play a role in protecting young users from digital threats. Here are some practical tips to help families and schools create a secure online experience:Promote secure communication: Promote the use of “safe words” to verify the authenticity of calls or messages and prevent impersonation scams. While parents and educators play a crucial role in online safety, young users themselves must practice good online habits to protect themselves from digital threats. Here are some ways for them to stay safe online:Nearly 70% of children and adolescents worldwide faced cyber risks, reinforcing the urgent need for stronger safeguards. These dangers take many forms, including exposure to inappropriate content, online exploitation, cyberbullying, and the impact of excessive screen time—growing more complex as young users become more active online.'Children today face growing cyber risks with bad actors taking advantage of their digital habits, trust in online platforms, and lack of awareness,” 'Cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought in child protection—it must be a fundamental pillar. At Palo Alto Networks, we are committed to equipping parents, educators, and young users with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to these threats, ensuring they can explore, learn, and connect in a safer digital environment.” Safer Internet Day is a powerful reminder of the growing risks young people face online. Palo Alto Networks supports this mission through its , which provides families and schools with interactive tools, educational resources, and expert guidance. These resources help create safer digital spaces where young users can explore and learn with confidence.As the digital world continues to evolve, protecting young users online remains a critical priority. By combining awareness, education, and proactive measures, we can equip young people with the skills and confidence to navigate the digital environment safely and responsibly
CYBERSECURITY CHILD PROTECTION ONLINE SAFETY DEEPFAKES AI SOCIAL MEDIA SAFER INTERNET DAY
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